Introduction / History

For thousands of years in Hindu society, "sudra" or "shudra" was a reference to those of the servant caste. These people have always held the lowest status. Among these communities are the Namassej, or Namasudra people. The vast majority live in West Bengal and other places where Hinduism is dominant, but some live in Bhutan where Tibetan Buddhism caste distinctions are far less pronounced.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Their economic condition is very bad. Some Namassej own land and are engaged in cultivation, but a large number are daily-wage workers. Rickshaw-pulling, poultry farming and goat-rearing are secondary occupations. They are hard-working, very lively, enthusiastic and conscious of their own identity. A very small number is doing government and private jobs. Their literacy rate has improved in recent years. Not many get an adequate education. The number of Namassej people with higher education has not been high. They are engaged in all kinds of professions but those living in villages are engaged in agriculture.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They profess Hinduism, and worship Lakshmi and Parameshwar.

What Are Their Needs?

The Namassej people need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life he offers them in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray the Namassej people who know God will become wise in sowing the Word of God among their families and multiplying the blessings of God to other households. Pray they will come to truly trust in Christ and follow him obediently. Pray they understand that to be a Christian means more than cultural identification. Pray the Namassej community will make schooling a priority for their children and will be able to care adequately for their families. Pray for health care, clean water, and sufficient food.

Scripture Prayers for the Namassej (Hindu traditions) in Bangladesh.